FERNAND-SEGUIN SCHOOL
REDEVELOPMENT AND EXPANSION
Client: CSDM
Montreal, QC. Canada
2021
3193 m2 / 34 369 ft2
Architects:
Smith
in consortium with BGLA
Located in a residential area, the project involves the redevelopment of some spaces of the Hubert-Reeves pavilion as well as the addition of a new 2-storey building. The expansion makes it possible to accommodate 8 classes, 1 multipurpose room, 2 kindergartens, 1 library, 1 gymnasium and the services intended for these premises. In a free and dynamic way, the new part establishes friendly links with the existing one. Two distinct volumes also define the new functions, namely: classrooms and multifunctional auxiliary spaces to the west; and the volume of the gymnasium and library to the east.
In order to improve the relations between interior and exterior spaces, and promote fluidity between functions, the expansion project proposes to rethink interactions. Thus, the ground floor of the extension is very open with the functions of multipurpose rooms that open onto the interior courtyard. The agora, which provides the link between the existing building and the extension, also connects directly to the small courtyard, making these spaces multifunctional.
The gymnasium opens directly onto the large courtyard with abundant windows promoting interrelationships. These developments therefore make the project accessible, active and unifying.
SVA integrated wood throughout the construction of the new building. In order to reduce costs and allow the choice of wood as the frame, a mixed system (light frame-solid wood) was chosen. Areas have been judiciously chosen to exhibit a beautiful glulam structure such as the link connecting the extension and the existing one (the agora) as well as the new gymnasium. The rest of the structure will therefore be a more conventional system of load-bearing walls and joists. In addition, integrated furniture and interior facing will also be provided in wood.
The new construction proposes the requalification of the block at the intersection of avenue Millen and rue Sauriol Est. Interfacing with the church and the presbytery of the parish of Ste-Rita, the project creates a community center on rue Sauriol. The new building, located projecting from the Hubert-Reeves pavilion, respects the alignment of the facades with the buildings of the neighboring blocks and creates an appeal and a link with the Julie Payette pavilion, located on the northeast side of Durham Street.